Wolfson Multi-Channel Analog Signal Processor Simplifies Audio System Design; Single Chip for Audio Processing and Routing.

EDINBURGH, Scotland -- Two new multi-channel analog signal processors, combining the functions of up to six separate components, were today introduced by Wolfson Microelectronics plc (LSE:WLF). The WM8580 and WM8581 provide a highly flexible system for routing and converting multiple audio paths and formats, significantly simplifying audio path design and making it ideal for LCD televisions, rewritable DVD systems, and AV receivers.

With high-performance audio and world class S/PDIF jitter performance, the devices offer an ADC and multi-channel DAC, a 4:1 S/PDIF transceiver and a second audio interface for highly flexible audio signal routing.

The products are built around a high quality multi-channel audio CODEC -- perfect for 5.1 and 7.1 audio output, or providing the multiple independent outputs such as speaker, line out, headphone and auxiliary. Both devices feature a two-channel ADC; the WM8580 integrates a six-channel DAC and the WM8581 an eight-channel DAC.

Each part features a 4:1 S/PDIF transceiver, with a maximum period jitter of 50ps, allowing them to lock onto and recover timing from poor quality input signals. The transceiver can therefore accept S/PDIF signals from a source even if the input signal is severely degraded.

To address new customer requirements, such as HDMI, data recovery, memory card recording and surround sound processors, Wolfson has developed a second audio interface, which allows seamless digital connection to multiple DSPs and peripherals.

"By providing a complete suite of high performance audio signal conversion and routing on a single chip, these new multi-channel analogue signal processors radically simplify LCD-TV and AV receiver audio design," said John Crawford, Wolfson product marketing manager. "Processing analog, digital and S/PDIF audio, the WM8580/1 sets new levels in total signal routing flexibility and S/PDIF jitter rejection."

The WM8580 and WM8581 CODECs have two- and three-wire serial or hardware control interfaces. The multiple DAC outputs have independent digital volume controls and the devices operate on 2.7-5.5 Volts for analogue functions and 2.7-3.6 Volts for digital.

Price and Availability

Both the WM8580 and the WM8581 are available for sampling in 48-pin TQFP packages and are priced at $3.71(U.S.) and $3.93 respectively in quantities of 10,000.

About Wolfson Microelectronics

Wolfson Microelectronics plc is a leading global provider of high performance, mixed-signal semiconductors for digital consumer electronics applications.

Renowned worldwide for its audio and imaging technologies, Wolfson devices can be found at the heart of many of the world's highest profile consumer products, including mobile phones, MP3 players, gaming consoles, DVD players, DVD-RW, LCD-TV and multi-function peripherals. If a digital product can capture an image or play a sound, Wolfson's vision is to supply a product that will allow it to perform these tasks better.

Headquartered in Edinburgh, UK, Wolfson has sales and engineering offices in the USA, Japan, China, Taiwan, Korea and Singapore. Wolfson Microelectronics plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE:WLF).

For more information about Wolfson Microelectronics, please visit www.wolfsonmicro.com or sign up for Wolfson eNews at http://www.wolfsonmicro.com/enews/.